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REMOTE PROFILE

Meet Arestia Rosenberg

Arestia Rosenberg is a freelance creative consultant from the USA traveling the world with Remote Year Cousteau

Why did you decide to come on Remote Year?

I applied to Remote Year because I was attracted to the intersection of global-mindness and community and was curious; but, I never thought I would get in! When I did, I labored a lot over the decision. On one hand, I had a great career I worked hard for, but on the other hand, an opportunity for adventure, reflection, and to meet a group of amazing, likeminded people. It wasn't an easy choice, but ultimately, I decided it was something I couldn't say no to and had to find a way to make it work.

What are you working on for the year?

Before coming on Remote Year, I was the Creative Director of Brand Strategy at The Daily Beast. When I decided to go on Remote Year, my company ultimately decided part of my job could not be done remotely; but, I'm still working on the same team and retain some of my previous duties. I've also moved to a part-time role, so I've taken on other clients in the form of content strategy & management and writing...and we'll see what else comes my way this year! I'd love to be able to make a film this year.

How did you find yourself a remote role?

I knew I had the kinds of skills that could lend itself to Remote Work, but it took months of hustling: letting people know I was available for remote work, the kinds of skills I had, the benefits to having an international creator on the ground, writing countless pitch decks and proposals. Through working my network, I'm currently able to balance enough clients to make remote work a possibility!

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How do you think traveling will affect your current work?

I'm hoping to meet creators and makers all over the world. I love to hear peoples' stories and I think opening up my storytelling to an even larger, global level will transform my craft.

Where does your passion for travel come from?

I was fortunate to travel with my family as a kid, but my world got really big at 17 when I went to live in Spain for a summer with a family that didn't speak any English. I was overwhelmed and right at home at the same time and I've been chasing that feeling ever since. Plus, I'm pretty loud and Spaniards are even louder, so it was great to feel right at home in a foreign land - I didn't think it was possible until then!

What are you most passionate about?

Storytelling and using it to make a difference.

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What would you say to others looking to bring travel into their lives?

"Buy the ticket. Take the ride." Hunter S. Thompson's words often ring in my ear when it comes to travel and tackling life. You don't know what's going to happen, you don't know what's coming, but you know growth, experience, and wonder are in your future. Just do it, just go. When I graduated from college, I told myself to make sure I traveled to at least one new country a year. Even years where I was working crushing hours and was flat broke, I found deals, and I made it work. Make it happen - you can find a way. The value is immense.

Describe your Remote Year experience so far in 3 words.

Possibility. Exciting. Right.

What book should everyone read?

"Prodigal Summer" by Barbara Kingsolver. It reminds me not only of the symbiosis when it comes to nature, but that everyone has a place in this world.

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What is your secret talent?

I'm crazy good at braiding hair.

Your favorite digital nomad hack?

Bring a second phone! You can pop a local sim card on, use it as a hot spot, and you won't be as upset if one gets stolen.

3 things you can't live without on the road?

Hair ties, a really good book, and sleeping pills.

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What is the most challenging part of being a digital nomad?

The world hasn't quite caught up to the possibility of working in this way. I get annoyed when people say "How is your trip?" I think, "You mean my life where I worked until 10pm tonight? Yeah, it's life." Don't get my wrong, I feel so fortunate and know I'm in an incredibly amazing position, but people don't readily understand that I know I can still work just as hard as if I was sitting in an office.

What is the best part about being a digital nomad?

When you get out at 10pm? You can still go to tango lessons and have wine with friends. There's always something new to explore and learn outside of work and cultures to immerse yourself in. It's never boring, even when work might be.

Who do you hope to be by the end of Remote Year?

The person I'm meant to be. I'd like to get a sense of clarity of what the next phase of my life is supposed to look like and be someone who is open, grounded, pursuing life at full force, helping others where I can, all with a sense of gratitude and grace.